Do you have someone in your life who just sucks the energy right out of you? Maybe a boss or perhaps a coworker who can only see your flaws and is oh too happy to point out those flaws. I don't know about you but this just leaves me feeling defeated and discouraged. By contrast, think how would you feel if everyone focused on those talents and abilities you possess that are positive and they really didn't spend much time thinking about the things that maybe you can't do very well. I think it would make me feel pretty good. I bet I would feel energized and eager to face each day! This is how I want my children to feel...excited, energized, motivated. It seems that people tend to focus on improving weaknesses but how would it be if we focus on a child's strengths rather than his weaknesses? I think if we, as a society, focus more on the positive rather than the negative, we might have children with higher self esteem and self worth. We might have more children who are self-starters. I am not suggesting that we ignore weaknesses (or discard all remedial help), nor am I suggesting that we praise a child for every little thing they do but I do think there needs to be a healthy balance. The fact of the matter is we all have strengths and weaknesses. What are your child's strengths? Is he good at a particular activity or sport? Do you have an outgoing child who tends to be a leader? Is your child super organized? By zeroing in on your child's strengths you are helping him get the most joy out of life as he pursues his greatest opportunities for success.
